A: Aggregation is when the value of stolen items is combined when they were stolen in separate but related thefts. For example, if one person shoplifted from the same store for several days in a row and accumulated $1,000 in stolen goods, their case can be considered grand theft because it exceeded the threshold of $950, even though they were separate thefts.
Santa Ana Theft Crime Lawyer
Theft Crime Attorney In Santa Ana, CA
Long sentences, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record can all result from a theft crime conviction. Fighting these charges is essential, especially in a theft crime case involving additional offenses, felony charges, or prior criminal convictions. A Santa Ana theft crime lawyer can help prevent harsh consequences through relentless advocacy and a strong defense strategy.
Why Choose The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman?
The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman is acclaimed for its aggressive defense strategy and high success rate. Jacqueline Goodman has experience in numerous high-profile cases, such as the Irvine 11 free speech case or the murder of an MLB pitcher. She has been admitted to argue criminal defense cases in the U.S. Supreme Court. The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman can build a strong defense for your theft crime case so you can move forward after your charges.
Ready to defend your rights? Schedule your consultation with our theft crime attorney in Santa Ana at 714-879-5770!
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Criminal cases are often complicated. There are two sides to every story, and it is important that the court sees the situation clearly. We can help defend you in your criminal case and make sure your perspective is heard.
Understanding a California Theft Crime Case
Theft crimes in Santa Ana cover a variety of offenses that involve knowingly stealing property, including services, that do not belong to you. The overall property crime rate in California is 2,294 per 100,000 residents. Much of this is caused by theft offenses, such as larceny or burglary.
Grand theft covers more serious theft offenses and can result in felony charges. If you are facing grand theft charges, working with a skilled Santa Ana theft crime attorney is essential to prevent lasting penalties. Grand theft offenses involve stealing over $950 of property or certain types of property. Examples of these offenses include:
- Grand theft auto: This offense involves stealing a vehicle. In 2024, over 175,000 vehicles were stolen across California.
- Theft of firearms: Stealing a firearm is a grand theft offense, regardless of whether it is valued below $950.
- Agricultural theft: Many agricultural or aquacultural products from a commercial farm or research operation are considered grand theft when their value exceeds $250. This includes fruits, vegetables, nuts, fish, shellfish, or other products.
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Theft Crime Penalties You May Face
Grand theft charges are punishable by up to three years in prison, with specific penalties varying with the circumstances and type of offense. Generally, theft that is under $950 or does not meet unique classifications for grand theft is considered petty theft, a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in county jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
Theft crime penalties can vary, depending on a variety of factors. Factors that increase the seriousness of an offense are called aggravating factors, which may also increase the penalties for a theft offense. Aggravating factors could include the following:
- You have a prior criminal record.
- A firearm was involved in the offense.
- The theft was against a vulnerable person, such as an elder or a child.
- The theft was affiliated with or organized by a gang.
- The stolen property was of high monetary value.
- The property’s theft had a significant negative financial impact on the victim.
The Three Strike Law and Theft Crime Penalties
For serious or violent felonies, California’s Three Strike Law can apply, which increases penalties for repeat offenders. Violent felonies can include theft crimes such as robbery, extortion, or carjacking, but they also encompass other violent crimes, such as murder or rape. When you are convicted of one of these felonies, a strike is added to your record. Penalties become more serious with more strikes, with exponentially more severe penalties upon the third felony.
If you have a history of violent felonies or your case involves another aggravating factor, you should hire a theft crime lawyer who can prevent these significant penalties. With the Three Strike Law, a third felony can lead to 25 years to life in prison. A lawyer can prevent increased penalties through a variety of techniques, such as negotiating a plea deal, challenging evidence against you, or getting a previous strike against you removed.
Why You Should Hire a Theft Crime Lawyer
A Santa Ana theft crime lawyer can help you throughout this process, from when you are arrested to sentencing. They can:
- Protect your rights against self-incrimination and unlawful searches and seizures.
- Explain California’s theft crime laws.
- Develop a defense strategy.
- Identify weaknesses or faults in the evidence used against you.
- File motions, such as a motion to dismiss the case or suppress evidence.
- Negotiate for decreased charges.
What Is Felony Murder?
Felony murder refers to a death that occurs during the commission of another serious crime. To be convicted of felony murder, you must have been reasonably aware that your actions could lead to another person’s death or serious injury, and that death must have occurred during the commission of one of these crimes:
- Arson
- Burglary
- Carjacking
- Drive-by shooting
- Kidnapping
- Rape
- Robbery
The defendant does not have to have had the active intent to kill anyone to be charged with felony murder.
Lesser Included Offenses
Prosecutors often give juries the option to convict defendants on lesser included offenses, which are different, less severe charges that are included in the definition of a more significant offense, in this case, murder. Lesser included offenses for murder can include:
- Voluntary manslaughter
- Involuntary manslaughter
- Vehicular manslaughter
A conviction on a lesser included offense is generally preferable to a conviction of murder under circumstances where a not guilty verdict is unlikely. Your lawyer can also help you decide whether it’s a good idea to plead to a lesser offense should the prosecution offer this option.
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Theft crimes can have severe implications for your life. Contact The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman to learn how an experienced theft crime attorney can achieve outcomes such as reduced charges, lowered penalties, and dismissed charges.